Connell Rawlinson appointed interim boss at Chester after Calum McIntyre exit
Blues first-team coach will take on the role for the final 10 games of the season
Connell Rawlinson will serve as Chester’s interim manager until the end of this season.
Rawlinson, 34, has been appointed as the temporary successor to Calum McIntyre, who departed the Blues after almost four years in charge following the 2-1 home win over Spennymoor Town on Saturday, and will take training for the first time on Tuesday ahead of the weekend clash with Darlington.
Rawlinson is expected to be assisted by the existing backroom team for the remaining 10 games of this season, with the Blues lying in 10th spot, three points off the play-off places, albeit with clubs above and below them having a number of games in hand.
Signed in the summer of 2024 from Notts County, Rawlinson, who began his football career with Chester City, made his way through the ranks at the Deva to make his professional debut during the ill-fated 2009/10 season, when the Blues were liquidated and Chester FC was reborn in the months that followed.
He was a regular feature of the Blues squad in 2024/25, where the club reached the play-off final, but this season he has played just five times in all competitions and has largely focused on his role as first-team coach under former boss McIntyre.
The Chester board continue to move towards appointing a new permanent manager for the 2026/27 season, with positive discussions having been held with one candidate on more than one occasion, although it is understood that taking over between now and the end of the season was not a preferred option. An announcement on McIntyre’s permanent successor could arrive within the fortnight, all being well.
36 appearances last season, nothing this season. Probably our biggest wage, hasnt kicked a ball. No word of injuries, nothing. Just seems to have been circling like a vulture waiting for yesterday to come. Obviously want him to win all 10 games, but cant help thinking this was his plan all along.
This was always the likely outcome this season. Hopefully this is only till the end of season and really hope it doesn't go beyond that . For me he has been part of the problem obviously couldn't be bothered to keep playing fitness up and supposedly in charge of coaching defence which has been the weakest area this season.
Will give the team total support in the last 10 games but a totally fresh approach is needed next season.